The RAF currently partners with just over 1200 businesses across the UK, with both parties mutually benefiting from the opportunities employing a reservist brings.
We’re constantly looking for new businesses to join us, to help provide the skill sets and reservists we’ll need for the future.
RAF Reservists train and serve alongside the Regular Forces. They make up a significant element of the nation’s defence capacity and are currently supporting operations worldwide and here in the UK.
Attracting and retaining the quality of people we need is critical - by supporting your reservist employees you can help ensure that the RAF is ready to deliver a transformational, cutting edge Next Generation Air Force.
This video features RAF Reservists Corporal Jon Buckle of 4624 Squadron, a logistics mover and gas engineer at Worcester Bosch, and Squadron Leader Paul Borgman of 4626 Squadron, a medical support officer and Head of Product at Data Interconnect Ltd. Their employers explain how the skills gained through the RAF Reserves positively impact their work and organisations.
World class transferrable training to develop key skills such as leadership, communication, self confidence and teamwork
Accredited skills in health & safety, first aid, IT, and personnel management
Fit and resourceful employees trained to operate under pressure with sound judgement and respect for others
Enhanced employee retention through extraordinary role variety which may not be available in your organisation
The team's accomplishment stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of reserve personnel, reaffirming our capacity to provide essential and effective global support.
RAF Reservists provide invaluable capacity to the Royal Air Force both in the UK and whilst deployed across the Globe
During 2023, Jemma led a small team of RAF Reservists from 606 Squadron who were tasked with a unique mission in Brunei to relocate the 230 Squadron Puma Force. The Squadron delivers essential flying support to jungle warfare training, providing logistical and emergency provision to British Forces learning to operate and survive in austere jungle environments. The team of four RAF Reserves co-ordinated and completed multiple journeys, safely moving millions of pounds worth of equipment and relocating the entire Squadron Operating Base some 57 miles from the North of the Country to the South. Jemma and her team completed this incredible challenge in 5 weeks with zero flying hours lost.
We are looking for new businesses to partner with us.
Businesses and organisations of all sizes can can take the first step by committing their support through signing the Armed Forces Covenant, a public pledge to support the Armed Forces community and their country.
You will have access to local level specialist support and a designated point of contact to provide advice on procedures and answer any questions. Our relationship with you is essential and we commit considerable resources to ensure this is strengthened and developed.
Find out more at gov.uk
The Ministry of Defence recognises and honours the commitment provided by organisations, with a 3-tier award scheme. Benefits for award holders include:
We know that diversity of thought, background and experience enables better decision making, improves the quality of delivery and helps to meet the needs of our customers. The high-quality training Jemma receives from the RAF benefits all parties.
When a reservist is mobilised, the MoD provide an information pack with details of your statutory rights and obligations as an employer. This includes when and for how long your reservist will be mobilised, and a point of contact for advice and questions. The Armed Forces aims to give 90 days’ notice of planned operational commitments (reduced to 28 days’ where absolutely necessary.)
If your employee is mobilised there is a comprehensive range of financial assistance available to support you, which can include salary costs, additional salary to cover a temporary replacement with handover costs when the employee returns back to work.
